Having spent some time in the more remote areas of the Soviet Union, I can appreciate how Akopayan is drawn to the Tsarist and pre-Tsarist architecture of Kislovodsk. His imagery of these rare gems that have survived the October Revolution and beyond illuminates forgotten times, His photographs of the natural beauty of the Caucuses reminds us that beauty transcends politik. I found this photo journal a great place to tarry, reminisce, and get lost in memories of a beautiful country with astounding history. A nice coffee table book. ( )